Oxford History and Politics Model Personal Statement Exemplar from Successful Applicant
This is a model personal statement by a successful Oxbridge History and Politics applicant
My passion for history stems from a realisation that so often the events of the past dictate the events of today and the prospects of the future, allowing us to trace the complexity of events and ideologies. For me, the maxim ‘you don’t know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve come from’ has always been potent. As I grew older, I developed a restless desire to learn more about how things came to be, how they affected those who grew up in its shadow and what symbols they represented. It was the beginning of a love and interest which continues to this day, and which I further explored in my EPQ.
[1] The personal statement begins with a reflection on the applicant's passion for history and the profound impact of past events on the present and future. Their belief in the importance of understanding history as a foundation for navigating the world is evident.
Studying History and Politics is intriguing and useful because they teach such important skills as attention to detail and being able to use facts and viewpoints in the shaping of arguments. These subjects also bolster my natural passion for advocacy. These proved useful in my successful Head Boy campaign at high school and in my mental health campaign as Chair of the Worcestershire Youth Cabinet, so I learned early on the importance of being able to convince and persuade through reasoned argument. My public speaking abilities were honed through volunteering as a National Trust tour guide for two years where I experienced the reality of ‘living history’. I developed empathic understanding and objective assessment so I could explore socio-political transformations and the impacts of changing philosophies on places like Croome Court.
[2] The applicant recognizes the value of studying History and Politics, highlighting the skills they provide, such as attention to detail, using facts to shape arguments, and the ability to advocate effectively. They draw connections between their academic pursuits and their experiences in leadership roles, emphasizing the importance of reasoned argument and persuasive communication.
[3] The mention of volunteering as a National Trust tour guide demonstrates the applicant's practical engagement with history, bringing it to life for others. This experience allowed them to develop empathy, objective assessment, and an understanding of socio-political transformations.
Reading has continually challenged and stimulated my understanding of history, enabling me to develop an analysis that was neither too detached nor hagiographical as my beliefs developed. Reading ‘The Decline and Fall of the British Empire’ led me to read ‘Churchill and Empire’ and ‘Lords of the Desert’. These books educated me about the ideology of empire and how it survived for so long in different guises. This interest in imperial history led me to read ‘Iran: A Modern History’ and the 1953 coup – a book outside my comfort zone, it introduced me to a part of the world unknown to me. Reading ‘A World of Paper’ was triggered by my interest in the French monarchy and in the workings of civil administration in early modern times whereas ‘Entitled’ for my EPQ on ‘The Rise of the New Men’ and early social mobility challenged my original beliefs and forced me to adjust and take account of opposing views while not abandoning my own. Through these experiences, I learnt not to simply regurgitate what I read but to digest it in ways that revealed more about worlds several centuries remove from now.
[4] Reading plays a significant role in the applicant's intellectual development, broadening their understanding of history and challenging their perspectives. They mention specific books that have expanded their knowledge, from studying the ideology of empire to exploring unfamiliar parts of the world. The statement emphasizes the applicant's ability to critically analyze and digest historical texts.
It is my ambition to become a barrister and, from there, undertake a political career. I have undertaken law work experience which has provided insight into the workings of the law and the skills required. The crucial skills I need in order to process and retain large amounts of information can be furthered through studying history. Indeed, any career in law and politics requires a grasp of the importance of tradition and precedent which so largely influences those respective fields. Shouting from the sidelines has never been my style, so at university it would be a privilege and a pleasure to contribute my voice to discussions. Receiving an A* in Politics A Level in the first year of college has only encouraged me to study this further while being a activist has allowed me to develop an awareness of grassroots politics. The ancient world has continued to fascinate me as I draw parallels between then and now and continue to make more sense of the times we live in. Like Aristotle said, I am a political animal by nature.
[5] The applicant expresses their ambition to become a barrister and pursue a political career. They highlight the connection between studying history and developing the necessary skills for processing and retaining information, as well as understanding the importance of tradition and precedent in law and politics.
I relish the opportunity to further pursue my love of the subjects with like-minded individuals who can challenge and influence my understanding in order that I can become more fully equipped for my future intended career.
[6] The statement reflects the applicant's active involvement in politics and grassroots activism, demonstrating their practical engagement with contemporary issues. They draw parallels between the ancient world and the present, showing a deep interest in political matters.
History and Politics are not just subjects which I desire to study but, for me, are key passions and interests which enable me to understand the world around me and assess my own stance within it, while allowing me to draw strength, comfort and vigour as I endeavour to advocate for a better world, reliably informed and aware of the successes and failures of those historical figures and events which have preceded me.
[7] The applicant expresses their enthusiasm for engaging with like-minded individuals and being part of discussions at university. They view History and Politics as more than just subjects, but as passions that inform their understanding of the world and their role in advocating for positive change.
Why is this a good Oxbridge History and Politics personal statement?
Overall, this personal statement showcases the applicant's passion for history, their intellectual curiosity, and their desire to make a meaningful impact in the field of law and politics.
Their engagement with historical texts, practical experiences, and activism highlights their commitment to understanding the complexities of the past and using that knowledge to shape a better future.
Their aspiration to contribute to discussions and further their understanding in a university setting demonstrates their eagerness to continue their academic journey and actively participate in the study of History and Politics.
